One of the greatest joys of coin collecting is the thrill of discovering something valuable in your pocket change! Some rare coins are not only historical treasures but also have significant monetary value.
In this guide, we’ll explore some of the most valuable half dollar coins still in circulation. We’ll provide tips on how to spot them and, most importantly, how much they might be worth.
Most Valuable Half Dollar Coins in Circulation
1. 1964 (P) Kennedy Half Dollar
The Kennedy half dollar was introduced in 1964 following the tragic assassination of President John F. Kennedy. The Philadelphia mint produced over 273 million of these coins in January and February of that year.
Made of 90% silver, the 1964 half dollars still hold their intrinsic melt value today. Even in less-than-perfect condition, a coin from Philadelphia will have a base value of $12. While coins in excellent condition may command higher prices, even an “about uncirculated” (AU58) example is worth around $14. The sheer number of these coins minted keeps their prices relatively stable in circulated form, though uncirculated examples can be quite valuable.
2. 1964-D Kennedy Half Dollar
The Denver mint struck 156 million of these half dollars, identified by a “D” mintmark near the eagle’s talon. While coins in poor condition may be worth around $22, those in slightly better grades see a drop in value. For coins graded between “fair” and AU55, the PCGS values them at around $13.
The real value comes with uncirculated coins, with an MS68 example selling for as much as $22,325 at auction in 2016.
3. 1964-D Kennedy Half Dollar with Double Die Obverse
A rare error coin from the Denver mint is the double die obverse 1964-D Kennedy half dollar. This error occurs when the die is struck multiple times, leading to a doubling effect on the coin’s design. You can spot the error by looking for doubling in the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST” and the date.
Coins in higher grades are worth more. For example, a coin graded 50 might fetch around $20, with the value rising to $32 for a higher-grade example.
4. 1964 D/D Kennedy Half Dollar (Re-punched Mintmark, FS-501)
Some 1964-D coins feature a re-punched mintmark, with a second “D” visible next to the first. This error creates a unique collectible. You can identify the FS-501 version if the second mintmark is slightly higher than the first.
A coin in “extremely fine” condition may be worth around $19, with that value rising to $27 for those graded “about uncirculated,” and $38 for those in higher grades.
5. 1964 D/D Kennedy Half Dollar (Re-punched Mintmark, FS-503)
Another variation of the re-punched mintmark error is the FS-503, where the second mintmark is positioned to the left of the first. These coins are generally worth more than the standard 1964-D halves, with a coin in “extremely fine” condition worth around $18, and increasing in value depending on its grade.
6. 1964 D/D Kennedy Half Dollar (Re-punched Mintmark, FS-504)
The FS-504 re-punched mintmark is rarer than FS-503 and can command a higher price. A coin graded 50 might be valued at $30, with higher-grade examples reaching $45 for those rated 58+.
7. 1972-D Kennedy Half Dollar (No FG)
A fascinating error occurred in 1972 when some Kennedy half dollars struck in Denver were missing the engraver’s initials, “FG,” on the reverse side. While this could have been the result of an engraving mistake or overzealous die polishing, this version of the coin is rare and valuable.
Even a coin in less-than-perfect condition can fetch considerable sums. An “extremely fine” example is worth approximately $275, with higher-grade versions worth even more.
8. 1974-D Kennedy Half Dollar (Double Die Obverse)
The 1974-D Kennedy half dollar is the only coin in the Kennedy series to feature a significant double die obverse error. The doubling is particularly noticeable in the motto “IN GOD WE TRUST.” While these coins can be found in circulation, their value is generally under $40 unless they are in exceptionally good condition.
9. 1976-S Silver Kennedy Half Dollar
To commemorate the bicentennial of the United States, the San Francisco mint produced special silver half dollars in 1976. These coins, made of 79% copper and 21% silver, are highly sought after by collectors. However, because they were intended as collector’s items and were not widely circulated, their values remain relatively modest. A circulated 1976-S silver half dollar is typically worth around $6 to $7, depending on its condition.
FAQs
How can I tell if my 1964 Kennedy half dollar is valuable?
Check the condition, mintmark, and any errors. A 1964 from Philadelphia is worth at least $12 in circulated condition, while uncirculated versions and error coins are more valuable.
What does “double die obverse” mean?
A double die obverse error happens when the die strikes the coin more than once, causing a doubled image, often visible in the date or motto. These coins are highly collectible.
What is the difference between a “D” and “P” mintmark on Kennedy half dollars?
The “D” mintmark indicates the coin was minted in Denver, while the “P” mintmark indicates Philadelphia. Denver mint coins are often more valuable due to fewer being produced.
Are error coins like the “No FG” Kennedy half dollars worth more?
Yes, error coins are usually more valuable because they are rare. A “No FG” coin can be worth significantly more.
How do I know if I have a 1976-S Silver Kennedy Half Dollar?
The 1976-S Silver Kennedy has a silver content of 79% copper and 21% silver and was struck at the San Francisco mint. It’s worth around $6 to $7 in circulated condition.